Kuching (meaning ‘Cat’ in Malay) is the laid back riverside capital of Sarawak and an ideal starting point for any Borneo adventure. It may be the largest city in Borneo but the clean streets, peaceful waterfront and friendly locals make it feel more like a small town. Even with the buzz of new cafes and trendy bars, as well as chic boutique hotels popping up around town, the charms of Kuching remain firmly in place.

With early roots as a trading post, Kuching was later built up by the family of Sir James Brooke. A number of museums are located around the city where you can learn more about Sarawaks vibrant history, with many housed in architectural masterpieces from the time of the White Rajahs. Other must do activities include a visit to the colourful weekend market, a stroll through the pristine waterfront, a sampan cruise along the Sarawak river and a taste of the spectacular food on offer throughout the city – a big highlight of any visit to Kuching.

Kuching is the ideal base to explore the state of Sarawak. Day tours are easy to arrange and the attractions are pretty unique; see the Rafflesia blooming in Gunung Gading, learn about Iban lifestyles in the longhouses at Batang Ai and come face to face with the rare Proboscis monkey in Bako National Park.